Differences in treatment and outcomes among racial and highest-attained education level in Peripheral Arterial Disease patients in an imaging study performed at UVA

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a prevalent atherosclerotic disease characterized by atherosclerotic lesions in the limbs. Patients with PAD have been shown to have a delayed phosphocreatine recovery due to chronic ischemia. Patients with PAD may be candidates for revascularization, but outcomes are variable. CrCEST allows for creatine concentrations to be monitored at high spatial resolution, while ASL quantifies perfusion into tissue. We use this combination to assess revascularization in patients undergoing both endovascular and surgical procedures and compare outcomes to those not undergoing procedures. PAD is more prevalent in several racial minority groups (African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans), and is more likely to affect people with lower attained education level and socioeconomic status. We plan to assess whether there are any disparities in PAD outcomes alongside our current study. We collect patient data such as race, highest attained education level, and zip code, which may reveal biases in treatment recommendation at UVA. We hope to see whether patients are less likely to be recommended for limb saving procedures based on these factors. We are looking to expand our patient recruiting base to better include patients from historically underserved populations and would benefit greatly from community outreach efforts.

2022 UVA Health Disparities Conference - Breakout Session 1: Health Outcomes in Disadvantaged Populations